AR-15 RETRO BUTTSTOCKS Reviews & Ratings

AR-15 RETRO BUTTSTOCKS

Recreate an American Classic with the Brownells M16A1 Buttstock Assembly, built to accurately replicate the original Stock issued to thousands of American servicemen & women. This Buttstock Assembly is modeled directly off of original stocks, which are becoming increasingly difficult to find, or in decent condition. Combine the M16A1 Buttstock Assembly with the matching Handguard Set & Pistol Grip from Brownells, and you have a new condition furniture set for your AR-15, M16, M16A1 or other early model rifle. The new production buttstock is in the same styling as a "Type D" stock, with a rear sling swivel and no trap door compartment. This model fits the widest variety of early M16 & AR-15 models. Includes A1 length buttstock screw and instructions. Assembly does not include buffer tube or other hardware. Available in several different colors including:

Black - Proper for Model 602, XM16E1, M16A1 & later generation rifles introduced after 1963
Green - Proper for early Model 601 rifles, the first AR-15 adopted by the US Air Force in 1959
Brown - Similar to the earliest AR-15 Prototype rifle furniture used in the late 1950s

Retro furniture from Brownells is not an exact copy of original components or their construction. Some areas have been changed due to manufacturing methods or to avoid counterfeit concerns.

See all of our AR15s and AR15 parts here.

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1 Stars

Reviews Summary

The AR-15 Retro Buttstocks have received mixed feedback, with many praising their authenticity and affordability. While several users appreciated the solid feel and fit, issues like minor aesthetic flaws, rattling, and the need for additional adjustments were common. Overall, it's considered a decent option for retro builds despite some quality concerns.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Product Quality

75%

Many reviewers acknowledge the quality of the AR-15 Retro Buttstocks, noting that the materials and overall sturdiness often exceed expectations. However, some users reported inconsistencies such as rattling components and aesthetic flaws, indicating that while quality is generally praised, there are notable concerns that could affect user satisfaction.

Authenticity and Design

60%

The stock is often described as a good replica of the original A1 design, which resonates well with retro enthusiasts. It captures the appearance and feel of classic models, even if some reviewers pointed out that it looks 'too perfect.' This theme resonates with about 60% of reviewers who appreciate the design and its relevance for retro builds.

Fit and Installation

65%

Installation experiences vary significantly; while many found it straightforward, others encountered issues with screws not tightening adequately or the need for modifications to eliminate rattling. About 65% of users mentioned installation challenges and varying fit quality, indicating a need for clearer guidance or improved design.

Value for Money

55%

A recurring theme in the reviews is the affordability of the product, with numerous users highlighting that it represents a good value for those looking to complete retro builds. However, some argued that it could be overpriced when considering the necessity for modifications and enhancements, reflecting a blended viewpoint among 55% of reviewers.

Aesthetic Flaws

70%

Several users noted cosmetic imperfections such as mold seams and discolorations, which detracted from the overall look of the stock. While some were willing to overlook these issues when considering performance, about 70% of reviewers brought up aesthetic concerns, emphasizing that appearances matter in retro builds.

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Disappointed

Bought this and turns out it doesn't fit on to modern style buffer tubes. I understand the description says buffer tube not included but it would of been nice to know it required an entirely different style buffer tube to even be used. Most people that are used to making clones or older style builds probably know this but people casually getting into retro builds might not. Waste of 50 bucks on my part, hopefully will be able to use on later build. Definitely a good looking stock and seems decently well made otherwise.

A couple of issues

Currently I have this stock on an Aero Precision M5 .308 rifle. It's an okay option for an A1 length fixed stock. I looked at both this and the Magpul MOE rifle stock and chose this one largely based on aesthetics. Unfortunately, when it arrived I found the aesthetics lacking. There's a mold seam running along the top of the stock and some marks around the sling swivel. I also just don't know how I feel about the material. It feels a little cheap, and Brownells seemed to think so too since they put a stock stiffener in it. The stiffener doesn't contact the walls of the stock, so it doesn't actually lend it any rigidity. It might save the stock if it were involved in a crushing incident, but even that feels doubtful. Worse still, it rattles in the stock. I attempted to take the rattle out and in the process nearly ruined the threading for the screw in the receiver extension. Any solution that took the wobble out also either moved the extension out of alignment or prevented the screw from threading in all the way. I finally just took the stiffener out and have been running it like that ever since. I don't recommend you do the same, but it's the only solution I've found. It's very nearly a very good product and I'd pay a little more to see these issues fixed. I like the feel and the looks bother me less now that there's some wear on the stock.

Could

Bought this A1 stock because I already had an A1 stock from Fulton Armory and was pleased with their product. I needed another one and Brownells' price was very reasonable. The buttplate on my stock is not flush. It seems as the roll pin hole was drilled when the buttplate was not flush with the stock. Small gap. Different A1 stock than my fulton armory one. Overall ok but not what I expected from a Brownells named product.

It's.......ok

Like others have said, the support piece inside the stock has an annoying rattle. My stock has several discolorations on it and a nice scratch/gouge where the stock screw rubbed up against it during shipping. I was wanting to make my M16A1 clone look brand new, because it is, not look like a battlefield pickup. Yes, it will eventually have wear marks and scratches throughout, but I wanted to be the one putting them there. I'm going to keep it and use it but I can't say for how long. I had no issues with the stock screw because I did NOT use a screwdriver, I used a screwdriver bit that fit the screw head and a 3/8" ratchet wrench. I may mod the support bracket like others have, but I shouldn't HAVE to. All in all, it works, just not what I was expecting.